The 2025 Out100 list hits newsstands this week, celebrating the nation’s most influential and impactful LGBTQ+ people, and it includes an honoree from Houston. Ian Haddock is founder and CEO of The Normal Anomaly Initiative, a non-profit focused on supporting and empowering black, queer plus people.
The prestigious list is Out Magazine’s annual recognition of trailblazing LGBTQ+ individuals across entertainment, politics, activism, sports and more. The list also includes Icon of the Year and cover star Niecy Nash-Betts; actresses Rosie O’Donnell and Keke Palmer; music artists Doechii and G Flip; and fashion icon Bob Mackie.
This year’s Out100 theme, “Bolder, Brighter!”, speaks to the LGBTQ+ individuals who continue to lead with resilience, courage, and joy in the face of adversity.
Haddock says he was stunned when he received the news that he would be honored on the 2025 Out100 list.
“When I look at the names of the Out100, I’m just like, yeah. Y’all got it right,” he said. “But when I found out I was nominated, an imposter set in.”
He added: “I immediately wanted to send my bio and say, hey, let me tell you everything that I did so maybe they’ll say yes. But she was so kind and so nice and she said, Ian, we already know what you’ve done.”
Haddock first started The Normal Anomaly Initiative as a blog in 2016, serving as a safe space for black, queer plus people to share their stories. By 2021, it gained non-profit status and now includes programs focused on advocacy, community empowerment and direct services like HIV testing and employment assistance. The non-profit also developed Texas’ first Black Queer Music Festival.
Haddock says he wanted to create a community for those who need one, and eliminate barriers.
“I came to Houston as an unhoused kid when I was just 16 years old,” he said. “And so I knew the power of community and how community can transform a person’s life.”
Haddock also added, “Community has, you know, saved me, embraced me, changed me. And so I can’t do anything but – not just advocate for people with HIV – but all marginalized people.”
ABC13 caught up with Haddock in the video above to learn how he’s working to transform lives through The Normal Anomaly Initiative.
View the full Out100 honoree list: The 2025 Out100
View Ian Haddock’s full feature: The 2025 Out100: Ian L. Haddock
Copyright © 2025 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.
Niko Travis is a dedicated health writer with a passion for providing clear, reliable, and research-backed information about medications and mental health. As the author behind TrazodoneSUC, Niko simplifies complex medical topics to help readers understand the benefits, uses, and potential risks of Trazodone. With a commitment to accuracy and well-being, Niko ensures that every article empowers readers to make informed decisions about their health.
